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Cody Balmer Pleads Guilty in Firebombing of Pa. Governor’s Residence, Sentenced to 25–50 Years

The plea follows prosecutors’ release of surveillance video showing him breaking windows and throwing Molotov cocktails inside.

Overview

  • Prosecutors said Balmer, 38, admitted to attempted murder, aggravated arson, terrorism, burglary and 22 arson counts tied to people endangered inside the home.
  • Judge Deborah Curcillo accepted a plea agreement setting a 25–50 year term, with parole eligibility on April 13, 2050, when Balmer will be 63.
  • Evidence shows he scaled the fence, smashed a window with a sledgehammer and ignited fires as Gov. Josh Shapiro’s family and others slept; no injuries were reported.
  • In a 911 call and interviews, Balmer cited grievances over Palestinians and told police he would have attacked the governor with a hammer if confronted.
  • The attack caused millions in damage and prompted security upgrades at the state-owned residence, and Balmer was ordered to pay $100,000 in restitution.